Happy Friday!
Wanna know my favorite thing about getting up in the morning? My beauty routine, of course! I believe it's very important to thoughtfully create a beauty & makeup routine that works realistically with your skin type, schedule, & budget. In terms of the latter, I think high-end skincare & makeup lines are great, but there are always more economical ways to build an amazing skincare & makeup kit. You can find everything you need right around the corner at the drugstore!
I used to think drugstore makeup brands were all low-quality & unreliable, & while some of them can be, I have found that most drugstore brands have kicked it up a notch in the past few years in order to keep up with more expensive brands. The important thing here is to know which brands to look for, as well as which to stay away from. That's where I come in! Drugstore makeup is a slight addiction for me because I can experiment with new colors and products without breaking the bank. A few brands I really love include NYX, Jordana, Wet 'N' Wild, Maybelline, Milani, and The Balm. Other brands have great products too, but I have found the aforementioned to be the most consistent.
Below I will share (in no particular order) my top ten skincare and makeup products from drugstore brands. Enjoy!
Eye Makeup
Jordana Best Lash Extreme Mascara ($4)
The perfect all-in-one mascara! I just recently found this gem & I truly love it. This long-lasting formula extends lashes while giving a naturally plump look. It can also be layered with 2-3 coats for a more dramatic look.
L'Oreal Telescopic Mascara ($10)
I can't believe it, but I've been using this mascara for over six years! There is simply nothing like it. This formula stretches your lashes to the high heavens for a wide-eyed, thin lash look. Tip: the formula takes a few seconds to dry, so apply one coat, then gently fan with your hand before applying a second coat. It reduces clumping!
NYX Eyeshadow Base ($10)
Ever feel like your eyeshadow disappears after a few hours of wear? Say goodbye to fading & fallout with this eye primer! Available in different shades for a natural look that matches your skin tone. On minimal makeup days when I skip foundation, I also use this as a natural-looking concealer to cover any dark circles or imperfections! Can be applied with a small flat brush or your finger.
Wet 'N' Wild Comfort Zone Eyeshadow Palette ($6)
These highly pigmented shades are perfect for any eye color! The formula is silky smooth with a subtle shimmer. The light, basic shades create an understated eye look, while the deeper tones can be layered on for a nighttime switch! My favorite eye palette from W&W!
Face Makeup
Maybelline FitMe Foundation ($8) and Concealer ($7)
These are perfect for a full-coverage look! The formula comes in Matte OR Dewy, depending on the look you desire. These last on my face all day, just like a high-end foundation. The concealer is very thin when used, but blends out perfectly with a damp Beauty Blender or sponge.
L'Oreal Infallable Pro-Matte 24HR Foundation ($12)
If you're looking for a truly flawless look, this one is a must! This foundation is lightweight and breathable, but SUPER long-lasting. It can withstand water, heat, and sweat! A true gem from the makeup gods.
NYX Honey Dew Me Up Serum ($24)
$24 for a NYX product??? Trust me on this one, this will change your life...or at least your skin. Since I started using this a few months ago, I have noticed that my skin is much more soft, bright, even-toned, & healthy-looking! Just dot the applicator a few times onto your face and massage into the skin. Wait for it to dry before you continue with your makeup regimen!
The Balm Cosmetics: Mary-Lou Manizer ($23)
I'm relatively new to The Balm, but I had to try this cult favorite highlighter...& I'm so glad I did! The formula is highly pigmented & very finely milled, which creates a subtle sheen with one layer of product. Upon layering, the product becomes even more shimmery and bright, but never glittery! You might need sunglasses for this one.
Lip Products
Milani Matte Lipsticks ($9 Each)
Finally, my favorite section! As a girl whose lipstick shade changes by the day, it's important to find an affordable line of great lipstick. The Milani lips are unfortunately underrated, but I think they yield great color while keeping lips hydrated. The line includes many neutrals as well as fun corals, reds, and plums!
Maybelline Color Sensational Lipsticks ($8 Each)
This line is GREAT and offers multiple finishes, from creamy and shiny to matte. The Creamy Mattes and Buff Nudes are my top two, each with about 8 shades. These can be used alone or layered over lipliner for more intense color! Bonus: they smell like fresh baked sugar cookies:)
That wraps it up for my drugstore favs! I hope this encourages you to try a new, bold look or just add an affordable addition to your everyday routine!
XX,
C&C